The Ultimate Guide to Chianti Classico

It’s a new dawn for this historic Tuscan region, where innovation is driving impressive quality

Vineyards in the Castelnuovo Berardenga commune
The Castelnuovo Berardenga commune is the birthplace of Chianti Classico's first super Tuscan, a 100 percent Sangiovese called Vigorello. (Courtesy of Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico)

Chianti Classico is a treasured Italian appellation deserving of the world stage. With outstanding Sangiovese-based reds capable of aging and expressing terroir, It’s also the best source of value in Tuscan wine today. After centuries of both struggle and acclaim, the region’s fortunes in the modern era have continued to improve, although its quality-to-price ratio has only recently received recognition. 

Read on for senior editor Bruce Sanderson’s ultimate guide to this captivating Italian wine region, including a primer on its history, regulations and geography, plus scores and tasting notes for top wines and good value picks.

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